Mayor Jade to have say on transport

NORTH Tyneside’s young mayor, Jade Hope, is representing the borough at Westminster as part of a new group intended to be a younger version of Parliament.

The 15-year-old now sits on the government’s national youth select committee, set up to give young people the opportunity to discuss and look into topics of interest to them.

Jade, a student at Longbenton Community College, will represent the region’s youngsters, as well as the nationwide young mayors’ network.

The group’s first inquiry, in July, will look into how public transport could be made safer, more affordable and more accessible for young people.

Jade said: “I am delighted to be a member of the first-ever youth select committee inquiry on transport.

“I am very passionate about how young people get around, and I believe that public transport should be a safe and affordable way for young people to get from one area to another, increasing their opportunities for education, work and leisure.

“I think it’s really important that young people have a say at national level, and I’m very proud to represent the region.”

The committee is taking evidence until Monday, May 14.

Individuals and organisations can submit evidence by e-mailing bycyouthselect@parliament.uk

John Bercow, the Speaker of the House of Commons, said: “I am delighted to support this exciting new project.”